Geology

Geology at Kent State Stark

The Department of Geology at Kent State offers undergraduate programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in geology. The basic difference between a B.A. and B.S. degree in geology is that the B.S. degree requires more geology courses while the B.A. degree allows for extensive elective course opportunities. Students can also earn the Bachelor of Arts degree in earth science.

Partial Coursework Completion at Kent State Stark

Students can complete 2-3 years of study at Kent State Stark before transitioning to the Kent Campus to complete their geology or earth science degree.

Geology Minor at Kent State Stark

Career Opportunities

In the coming decade, the need for energy, environmental protection and responsible land and water management is expected to increase employment demand within the geosciences, including employment in management, scientific and technical services, for which the B.A. in Geology provides academic preparation. Between 2008 and 2018, employment growth of 18 percent is expected for geoscientists and hydrologists, growth of 29 percent is expected for environmental science and protection technicians, and growth of 15 percent is expected for natural science managers.

About 23 percent of geoscientists were employed in architectural, engineering, and related services and 19 percent worked for oil and gas extraction companies. State agencies such as State geological surveys and State departments of conservation employed another 9 percent of geoscientists. Eight percent worked for the Federal Government, including geologists, geophysicists, and oceanographers, mostly within the U.S. Department of the Interior for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and within the U.S. Department of Defense.